The computer transcription of machine shorthand

In this paper, research undertaken at Leicester Polytechnic into the computer transcription of Palantype code (the British equivalent of Stenotype code) is described. The work has been investigated by the British Broadcasting Corporation for the automatic subtitling of television to benefit the deaf and hard of hearing. The fundamentals of machine shorthand are explained and the problems of computer transcription are identified. Techniques developed to overcome these problems are also described in outline. The research is continuing at The Polytechnic, Wolverhampton, and negotiations are taking place with H.M. Stationery Office to investigate the possibility of transcribing the proceedings of the House of Commons by computer.